Bruno Fernandes is helping Manchester United in many ways. (Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United have been appointed as permanent manager Michael Carrick, allowing them to fully focus on next season. The former midfielder has been handed a two-year contract following his successful bid to lead United to a respectable third place and, importantly, return to Champions League football.
Carrick faces quite a challenge this summer as he looks to rebuild the team around his vision. United will need to strengthen their squad if they are to take on Arsenal and Manchester City next season, but they will need to leave in order to raise funds.
While doubts remain over Manuel Ugarte’s future at Old Trafford, midfield is clearly an area in need of reinforcements, especially after Casemiro left the club following Sunday’s final win over Brighton.
As the summer rebuild begins, Express Sport brings you all the latest United news…
A fascinating moment has emerged that hints at what lies ahead. After the final whistle at Brighton, Bruno Fernandes was seen having a lengthy discussion with Carlos Baleva, a midfielder closely linked with United.
Initially, Fernandes appeared ready to simply put his arm around the Cameroonian and move on. However, he later returned for a further extended conversation with Baleva, sparking speculation among United supporters.
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Some said it looked like “more than just a handshake,” while others called him “Agent Fernandez.” Baleva was keen to move to Old Trafford last summer, but Brighton’s £100m offer dampened their enthusiasm.
Since then, Baleva has struggled to reach his previous heights, with Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler admitting speculation linking Baleva with a move to United has had a negative impact. Now he is available for a reduced amount.
The 22-year-old was seen chatting with United players, including Joshua Zirkzee, in the tunnel after the match, and even approached Patrick Dorg, who was interviewing him.
At the end of Dorg’s discussion with journalists, he was asked about Baleva’s mention of his name and whether he would welcome the possibility of them playing together at United next term. He laughed and replied, “No comment!”
However, the Independent reports that Tottenham are keen to reunite Baleva with former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi this summer, so Tottenham may end up forcing a deal with United.
Bruno Fernandes talking to Carlos Baleva (Image: Sky Sports)
Baleva could replace Ugarte, who United intend to let go this summer. The Uruguayan’s move to Old Trafford has been unsuccessful, but now would be the ideal time for United to minimize their losses.
Ugarte himself admitted that he had endured a disappointing season, telling reporters on his return to his home country ahead of the World Cup: “Manchester United weren’t the best this year.”
Regarding the future, the 25-year-old confessed, “I will accept whatever happens.” He added: “I’m not thinking about what’s going to happen next, because the best thing to do after my career is to play in the World Cup in my home country. I want to enjoy it and push my limits.”
“Manchester United is one of the best clubs in the world. The World Cup will be the deciding factor in everything. I’m open to whatever happens.”
“It wasn’t a great year in every way, but mentally I learned a lot. I was surrounded by good people, so I’m trying to take positives from it. We’ll see what happens at the World Cup. I think whatever happens, it’ll be a good result.”
